Mathews Mar Polycarpos Appointed as Metropolitan of Mavelikara Archdiocese

Kerala, 30 May, 2025 - In a significant development within the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, His Grace Mathews Mar Polycarpos Episcopa has been appointed as the new Metropolitan of the Mavelikara Archdiocese. The announcement was made by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the head and father of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.

The official declaration of the appointment was made on 30 May 2025. The announcement was simultaneously delivered from the Vatican and at 3:30 PM IST at the St Mary’s Major Archeparchial Cathedral, Pattom. The event at the cathedral began with a prayer service, followed by the formal announcement read by His Grace Antony Mar Silvanos Episcopa, the Curia Bishop of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.

This appointment comes in the wake of the retirement of His Grace Joshua Mar Ignathios Metropolitan, who served as the Metropolitan of the Mavelikara Archdiocese. His departure from the role paved the way for the appointment of a new leader to oversee the spiritual and administrative responsibilities of the archdiocese.

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, an Eastern Catholic Church in full communion with Rome, holds its hierarchy and traditions in deep reverence. The role of a Metropolitan is one of great significance, entailing both pastoral and administrative duties, especially in guiding the faithful, supporting clergy, and upholding the liturgical and ecclesial traditions of the Church.

Mathews Mar Polycarpos Episcopa’s appointment is seen as a continuation of the Church’s mission under strong spiritual leadership. The Church now looks forward to his guidance and service in his new role as the Metropolitan of the Mavelikara Archdiocese.

The transition marks a moment of both gratitude and hope—gratitude for the dedicated service of Joshua Mar Ignathios and hope for a future of continued spiritual growth under the leadership of Mathews Mar Polycarpos.

Source: Mangla Vartha